Tensions were high following a heated exchange between a center-right Australian politician and a journalist who said he was "just doing [his] job."
Elizabeth Lee, leader of the Canberra Liberals in the Australian Capital Territory, apologized for her actions after she was photographed flipping off journalist Ian Bushnell, with whom she said she has history with, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
"Earlier, I engaged in poor behavior that was unprofessional, and I apologize," Lee told a group of reporters. "I don't excuse my behavior, it was poor behavior and I'm disappointed in myself."
Lee added that she respects "the work that journalists do, including asking tough questions."
In a story published by his employer, RiotACT, Bushnell said, "Trying to attack journalists for just doing their job is something the public should be extremely concerned about. It undermines the democratic process."
The exchange that led to the uncouth behavior regarded how the Canberra Liberals party, which is aiming to replace a party that has been in power for two decades, plans to finance their policies, which Lee said they are still discussing with the treasury.
"Again, isn't it a bit late in the day to be having these discussions?" Bushnell interrupted a journalist to ask.
The exchange ended when Lee asked Bushnell, "Are you finished?" three times as he retorted, "Answer the question."
Lee added, "I will answer the question in my own way, Ian. You don't get to dictate how I answer the question," before she walked away, ending the press conference.
Bushnell told RiotACT, "I reject any suggestion of being unprofessional. As a practicing journalist, I'm there to ask questions on behalf of the public. For me, it gets frustrating when politicians evade or deflect questions."
© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
